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"The United States currently spends billions incarcerating millions of people, the majority of whom are people of color. These policies have resulted in a permanent criminal class. We have selectively locked people up, sealed people out and shut entire communities down. It is past time for a complete overhaul of this country's criminal justice system," AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka said in a statement. "Together with our allies, the labor movement is dedicated to shifting the focus away from punishment and towards educational opportunities that help people change their lives and get back on track."

"On the three entitlements, you send one back to the states [Medicaid] and impose reasonable reform on the others," he said, stressing that current retirees and those soon to retire have nothing to worry from his proposed reforms.